Apple may introduce a new version of the AirPods Pro with built-in cameras as early as this year, according to recent leaks. The company launched the AirPods Pro 3 alongside the iPhone 17 lineup last year, and now speculation points to an upgraded model arriving sooner than expected.
Airpods Pro with Camera: Not What You Think
Tipster Kosutami (@Kosutami_Ito) on X suggests the “next AirPods Pro can see around you. At same price avail.” However, the camera on these earphones will not function like a traditional camera. Instead, Apple is reportedly planning to use an infrared-based sensor to power visual intelligence tasks, not for clicking photos or recording videos.
Pricing: Will It Remain Unchanged?
The leak also indicates that the new AirPods Pro could be priced the same as the current-generation AirPods Pro 3. This appears unlikely unless Apple discontinues the existing model and replaces it entirely. If that is not the case, pricing may go up or down depending on the final specifications. Nothing has been confirmed officially yet.
Visual Intelligence and AI Features
The infrared sensors on the upcoming model are expected to help the device better understand a user’s surroundings. This could unlock new AI-powered features focused on context, movement, and environment. Apple CEO Tim Cook has repeatedly stressed that visual intelligence is a key part of the company’s future AI roadmap, making this rumoured update more believable.
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Launch Timeline: When Can We Expect?
Apple has not made any official announcement regarding the launch date. The company typically unveils new AirPods alongside iPhones in September. However, it may alter its plans based on internal strategy and roadmap. Given Apple’s roughly three-year upgrade cycle for Pro models, a complete redesign may not arrive yet. Instead, this could be a modest update to the existing AirPods Pro 3.
Current AirPods Pro 3: A Quick Recap
The existing Airpods Pro 3 come with the H2 chip and offer 8 hours of listening time with active noise cancellation (ANC) enabled. They carry an IP57 rating for dust and water resistance. The Earbuds also feature a built-in heart rate sensor for workout tracking. Charging is supported via USB-C and Mag Safe, and a built-in speaker helps with Find My location tracking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will the new AirPods Pro have a camera for taking photos?
No. The reported camera is an infrared sensor meant for visual intelligence tasks, not for photography or video recording.
2. When is Apple expected to launch the AirPods Pro with camera?
While no official date is confirmed, Apple usually launches new AirPods in September alongside iPhones. A 2025 launch is possible.
3. Will the new AirPods Pro cost more than the current model?
According to the leak, the price may remain the same as the current AirPods Pro 3. However, this is not confirmed and may change.
4. What features do the current AirPods Pro 3 offer?
They feature the H2 chip, 8-hour battery life with ANC, IP57 rating, heart rate sensor, USB-C and MagSafe charging, and Find My support.
5. Is Apple planning a full redesign for the AirPods Pro?
Given Apple’s three-year upgrade cycle, a major redesign may not be imminent. The camera model is likely a modest update to the existing version.